ABSTRACT
In Friction stir welding (FSW), significant interdependencies exist between the human-machine interface (HMI) variables for quality joints, the tool design variables, the workpiece material, and its dimensions. Part I of this review examined these interwoven process variables, encoded them as process mechanisms, and statistically assessed how they affect the mechanical efficiencies of ensued joints in different grades/temper of aluminum and copper alloy workpieces. The variance observed in the process parameter windows per workpiece for defect-free, high-quality joints shows material property dependencies. An in-depth understanding of these dependencies could facilitate process parameter tuning for new welding jobs, especially for workpiece materials/alloys developed through recent techniques like additive manufacturing. Hence, Part II of this review critically examines the functional performances of friction stir welded commercially pure metals, aiming to identify how innate workpiece material properties influence the selection of apt process parameters and through comparative inferences, propose generalizations.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.